Cholsey & Wallingford Railway – Wallingford

Discover the Charm of the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway!

Step aboard the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, a hidden gem in the heart of Oxfordshire, where history, nostalgia, and adventure come together for a day of unforgettable fun! Whether you're a railway enthusiast, a history lover, or a family looking for a unique day out, there's something for everyone at this delightful heritage railway.

A Ride on a Classic Heritage Railway

Enjoy a scenic journey through the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside aboard one of our beautifully restored heritage trains. The railway runs along the historic branch line between Cholsey and Wallingford, offering a peaceful and relaxing ride that’s perfect for all ages. The journey may be just a few miles long, but it’s packed with charm, and a great way to experience travel as it used to be!

Explore Wallingford, a Historic Market Town

Your journey will take you to the charming market town of Wallingford, a place rich in history and character. Take some time to explore this delightful town, known for its medieval heritage, riverside walks along the Thames, and its connection to the famous author Agatha Christie. You can even visit Wallingford Museum or browse the local shops, cafes, and antique markets.

See History in Action

At the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, you’ll have the chance to see and learn about the fascinating history of British railways. From our vintage locomotives to the classic carriages and equipment used to restore and maintain them, railway enthusiasts will be in their element. The dedicated volunteers who keep the railway running are always happy to share their knowledge and passion for these historic trains.

Refreshments at the Station

Feeling peckish? Stop by the station for a light refreshment! The CoffeeStop offers a range of delicious snacks, cakes, and drinks to enjoy before or after your journey. There’s nothing like a classic tea and cake to complete your vintage day out!

Family Fun and Events

We welcome visitors of all ages, and there’s plenty to keep younger guests entertained! Families will enjoy special themed event days throughout the year, from the Santa Express in the festive season to fun-filled family days out during the holidays. Craft activities, treasure hunts, and storytelling are just a few of the exciting events on offer throughout the year.

Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Before you leave, don’t forget to visit our gift shop! You’ll find a great selection of memorabilia, toys, model railways and souvenirs to take home as a memento of your visit. It’s the perfect place to find gifts for the railway enthusiast in your life!

What to see on the journey

Re-enactors will be on each train throughout the day. You might see Winston Churchill talking to people on the train, soldiers returning from Dunkirk, even have a sing-along to boost morale. On your journey, look out for Cholsey Church, where Agatha Christie is buried, and perhaps spot the magnificent Red Kites, that are often seen flying across our line.

Heritage railways are a haven for wildlife as they are often undisturbed for long periods of time. Planting and managing hedgerows can create corridors along which wildlife can travel between what otherwise might be fragmented communities that may be too small to survive.

The gravel pit lakes are vibrant habitats for various species of aquatic birds including Great Crested and Little Grebe, Tufted Ducks and Mallards, Coots, Moorhens and Grey Herons. Along with the large local population of Red Kite, a Fox is often seen crossing the railway line, Roe Deer and Muntjacs can be seen in the adjacent fields, a Barn Owl is often hunting in the early evenings, and the indicator lights for the crossing continue to be a favourite perching spot for a Buzzard.

About the line

Our rural branchline was first opened in 1866. The line runs for two and a half miles through the beautiful countryside of South Oxfordshire and links the historic riverside town of Wallingford with mainline trains at Cholsey. Travel in our heritage coaches, hauled by a steam engine or one of our diesels locomotives. Round trips take around 45 minutes.

Known locally as The Bunk, passenger services ceased in 1959. Having secured the line in 1981, the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway Preservation Society now aims to enhance the facilities that the railway offers and to improve our Wallingford site. Our line links the national railway network at Cholsey, with the historic market town of Wallingford, Oxfordshire. Wallingford and the River Thames are 10 minutes walk away where you will find Castle ruins, a Museum and a selection of shops, restaurants and pubs.

VISIT THE CHOLSEY & WALLINGFORD RAILWAY